Teaching Students About Susan Smith

Susan Smith, a complex and controversial figure in American history, provides a rich opportunity for educators to engage students in discussions about mental health, crime, and the media’s role in shaping public opinion. This article will provide tips on how to teach students about Susan Smith and how to facilitate student engagement in meaningful discussions about this multifaceted case. Lesson 1: Background and Context Start by providing students with a general background and context surrounding Susan Smith’s case. Talk about the crime itself, including the details of what happened during that time in 1994 when Smith claimed that her car... [Read more...]